Tabbouleh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tabbouleh

[təˈbʊli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food dish

Tabbouleh is a traditional Middle Eastern salad made primarily of finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and soaked bulgur. It is often seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Tabbouleh is known for its refreshing flavor and is often served as part of mezze, a selection of small dishes served as appetizers.

Synonyms

herb salad.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered tabbouleh as a side dish.
  • Tabbouleh can be a great addition to any summer picnic.
  • She loves to make tabbouleh with fresh herbs from her garden.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Traditions

  • Tabbouleh is a common dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, often enjoyed as a mezze or appetizer.
  • While parsley is the star ingredient, the proportions of other ingredients can vary greatly, making each version unique.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, sharing tabbouleh signifies friendship and hospitality, especially during gatherings and celebrations.
  • Coptic Christians in Egypt often prepare tabbouleh during festive meals, highlighting its role in cultural and religious observances.

Nutritional Value

  • Tabbouleh is packed with vitamins and minerals from its fresh veggies, making it a healthy option rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber.
  • The bulgur wheat provides a good source of whole grains, contributing to better digestion and heart health.

Global Popularity

  • Tabbouleh has transcended its regional origins and gained popularity worldwide, found in many Mediterranean and vegetarian restaurants.
  • Modern variations of tabbouleh can feature quinoa or other grains, appealing to diverse dietary preferences.

Origin of 'tabbouleh'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tabbouleh' comes from the Arabic word 'tabbuleh', which roughly means 'to season' or 'to spice'.
  • This dish is an ancient staple, traditionally served in Levantine countries since antiquity.

The word 'tabbouleh' comes from the Arabic word 'تَبُولَة', which means 'a salad' or 'to season'. Tabbouleh originated in the Levant region of the Middle East, particularly Lebanon and Syria, where it has been a staple for centuries. Traditionally, the dish was made from bulgur wheat, which was a common grain in the area. The key ingredient, parsley, was used for both flavor and its nutritional value. Tabbouleh's popularity has spread beyond the region, especially in Mediterranean cuisine, and it has become a symbol of Middle Eastern culinary traditions. The dish has many variations, but the main ingredients typically remain the same, highlighting its cultural significance and adaptability in different culinary contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,742, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.